We’re Hiring!

Administrative Assistant

(Part-time, c. 60% FTE. Fixed term 12-month contract)

About us

The British Institute for the Study of Iraq (BISI) is a UK-based charity dedicated to promoting research and education on the history, societies, and cultures of Iraq. Founded in 1932 as the British School of Archaeology in Iraq, BISI is one of the oldest and most respected institutions of its kind.

Our mission is to foster greater understanding of Iraq’s rich and diverse history, from the earliest human settlements through to the present day. We support cutting-edge research, fieldwork, publications, and public engagement initiatives, and we provide funding and support to scholars at all career stages.

BISI works in close collaboration with academic institutions, museums, and heritage organisations in the UK, Iraq, and internationally. We are committed to capacity-building and knowledge exchange, ensuring that Iraq’s cultural heritage is studied, preserved, and shared for future generations.

Through our events, lectures, and outreach, BISI also seeks to engage a broad public audience with the history, culture, and contemporary issues facing Iraq and the region.

Job Opportunity: BISI UK Administrative Assistant

The British Institute for the Study of Iraq (BISI) is recruiting a part-time Administrative Assistant to support the work of the Institute from its London office.

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a small but dynamic team supporting BISI’s mission to advance knowledge of Iraq, its history, society, and culture. The Administrative Assistant will be working closely with the Executive Officer to manage the day-to-day running of the London office and will provide essential administrative and organisational support to BISI’s activities in the UK.

Key responsibilities include:

• Handling daily correspondence and enquiries
• Supporting the organisation of Committee and Trustee meetings, including preparing agendas, taking minutes, and managing documentation
• Assisting the Visiting Scholarship Coordinator with planning and execution of the Visiting Iraqi Scholarship programme, including logistical support
• Supporting events and projects as required

We are looking for someone who is highly organised, with excellent communication skills and attention to detail. An interest in the Middle East, particularly Iraq, and experience in the charity or higher education sector would be beneficial. An ability to converse in Arabic is desirable, but not essential.

This is a London-based role with hybrid working arrangements. The post is c. 60% FTE, 24 hours per week. Applicants must be flexible as the role may involve evening and weekend work and overnight stays. A requirement of the post is that the Administrative Assistant can easily travel to Central London to meet with BISI staff and trustees. The role may also require you to travel to cities outside of London occasionally. The position offers a competitive salary of up to £25,000 per annum. It is a fixed-term 12-month contract in the first instance, with the potential for a permanent term renewal. There is a six-month grace period for mutual review.  

The Institute values diversity and is committed to equality of opportunity. Applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK.

How to apply: applications should consist of a covering letter, CV and the names and contact details of two referees. Referees will be contacted only for short-listed candidates:

Applications should be emailed to [email protected]

Application Deadline: 9 December 2025

Interviews: January 2026

Start Date: 2 February 2026

Further particulars can be obtained here:

or  directly from Ali Khadr ([email protected])